R & D Senior Product and Packaging Development Manager -The Laughing Cow

$130,000 - $135,000/Yr

Bel - Chicago, IL

Full-time - Mid Level

Hybrid - Chicago, IL

Personal and Laundry Services

About the position

The R & D Senior Product and Packaging Development Manager at Bel Brands is responsible for overseeing product development and innovation for the Processed Cheese Brands, specifically The Laughing Cow, within the NORAM region (USA & Canada). This role serves as the primary contact for R&D at both the factory and corporate levels, ensuring timely delivery of projects while adhering to quality standards and sustainability guidelines. The position involves managing a team, coordinating with various stakeholders, and driving the innovation pipeline over a three-year timeframe.

Responsibilities

• In charge of Bel Brands and Private Label projects for the Laughing Cow platform produced in NORAM (USA & Canada).
• Coordinate all Feasibility Requests.
• Ensure the development platform follows the CSR and nutri+ program guidelines.
• Ensure project methodology is adhered to.
• Deliver development projects at the right quality level, OTIF, and best Time-to-Market (TTM).
• Lead the Plant Technologist, team members, and technical resources for the project in a dotted line capacity.
• Ensure formula & process consistency and product process transformation as a key member of the industrial master plan.
• Oversee packaging development in coordination with suppliers and internal teams.
• Manage security, safety, and quality management of the team.
• Provide technical coaching within the project team to develop talent.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and/or equivalent experience required.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in product, process, or packaging development.
• Management experience in a relevant field.
• Food industry background is essential.
• Proven track record in development project tracking.
• Autonomous leadership skills with a focus on driving results.
• International experience working for a global company is a plus.
• Fluency in English is required; French speaking is a plus.

Nice-to-haves

• Technical product process knowledge, specifically in cheese processing.
• Technical packaging knowledge including materials and equipment such as cardboard, aluminum, and plastics.
• Experience in driving transformation and breakthrough innovation.
• Ability to connect with external ecosystems and manage third-party relationships.

Benefits

• Base Salary Range: $130,000 - $135,000 (depending on experience)
• Annual Bonus Target Potential: 23%
• PTO days
• 401k match
• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage available from Day 1
• Hybrid work schedule (Chicago-based)